Earlier in the day, TASS learned about the incident from local emergency services in Yamal, and later on the information was confirmed by the local branch of the emergencies ministry.

"During a regular flight, a Mi-8 made an emergency landing 55 km south-east of Vladimir-Nak (Yamal-Nenets Autonomous District)," the ministry said. "On board the helicopter were 17 servicemen; during the landing four servicemen received moderate injuries."

The Defense Ministry said all the injured were taken to hospital in Salekhard. Nothing threatens their lives, the press service added.

The helicopter was used in works following outbreak of anthrax. Military helicopters are used there for reconnaissance and to deliver equipment and food.